In this six week program we explored a different theme each week, and applied it to our art making. We worked on individual and group art projects surrounding the theme throughout each week. Every day of the week we worked on a different media. Mondays we focused on dry media drawing, Tuesdays we focused on fiber arts, Wednesdays we focused on building/sculpture, Thursdays we painted, and Fridays we worked on collage art. As you explore the exhibition, you will likely be able to guess our weekly themes.

We not only learned the art fundamentals but we also focused on the STEM academic elements of each subject. For example, when learning about outer space, we learned all about gravity, what a nebula is, how a star is formed, and the history of the Hubble Space Telescope. Throughout our program, we also prioritized the social/emotional wellbeing and education of our students. Each morning we held an “opening circle time” where we talked about our day ahead, how we all were feeling, and anything that students wanted to share about. At the end of each day, we held “closing circle time” where we reflected on our day, and empowered our students by asking them to “grade the lesson/activity, and “grade the teachers”. This allows each student to feel heard and that their voice matters. When students did not like a particular activity, the teachers asked them details and what they think could have improved the activity. Also, each week we held “in-progress art critiques” which teaches self confidence, expression, how to offer advice or constructive criticism to others, and public speaking. Our group projects taught our students teamwork, communication, planning, and creative thinking.